Acupuncture

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient practice dating back 2000-3000 years. Acupuncture utilizes very thin needles inserted in patterns designed to affect the flow of energy in the body. It is thought that if this energy flow is disrupted, disease or pain can result. By stimulating these certain points on the body, many health conditions can be successfully treated.

Western, or medical, acupuncture searches for a more modern explanation as to how acupuncture works. One of the theories involves powerful opioid peptides like endorphins and neurotransmitters that are released when needles are inserted. As these chemicals work to reduce the pain, normal function is restored allowing the body to heal the affected area naturally.

The simple truth is, there are many theories as to how and why acupuncture works. At this point in time, it is difficult to say there is only one valid explanation to this ancient art. As advancements in science have given us a better understanding of the human body, science will most likely give us a better understanding of exactly how acupuncture works. Whether it’s by way of altering the energy flow through the body, or the release powerful chemicals, acupuncture has effectively helped million of Americans since its introduction to the United States in 1972.

There are many studies that show the effectiveness of acupuncture. The National Institute of Health (NIH) concludes that acupuncture may be effective in treating conditions such as:

Tennis Elbow

Osteoarthritis

Fibromyalgia

Low Back Pain

Carpal Tunnel

The World Health Organization has also compiled a list of conditions effectively treated by acupuncture including, but not limited to:

Headaches

Knee Pain

Low Back Pain

Allergic Rhinitis

Morning Sickness

Neck pain

Sciatica

Sprains

Tennis Elbow

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

Acupuncture utilizes very thin, sterile needles. Most patients state they feel little, if any, pain at all. It is very common for patients to say they “didn’t feel it at all”. Let’s be honest though, acupuncture involves needles being inserted and this can result in pain. The good news is, the pain is usually none to minimal.

How Many Treatments will be needed?

This is an important question to ask, but a very difficult one to answer. There are cases that require only one treatment, and others that require much more time. Our approach is to treat as little as needed to get the desired response. We incorporate very conservative treatment plans and monitor the progress to make sure we are on the right track.